The applicability of DNA tracers in hydrogeology

Date

Author

Metadata

Abstract

Hydrogeologic tracers have the ability to help explain the complexities of the unseen subsurface in order to begin to understand the network of flow patterns and pathways throughout. The tracer introduced in this thesis is based on the premise that DNA will lead to the development of a more streamlined tracer. A DNA tracer offers user specific unique capture markers where PCR is used for detection, and concentration is not a factor in order to have success. Streptavidin Coated Beads (SCB) serve as the medium for which the DNA markers are attached and moved throughout the subsurface as the DNA is more stable once it has a medium of transport.